Bottled Water and Acidity

Acidic bottled water refers to water with a pH level below 7, meaning it has a higher concentration of hydrogen ions, making it more acidic. While most bottled waters have a neutral or slightly alkaline pH, some varieties can be more acidic due to factors like the source of the water, added minerals, or treatment processes. Natural spring waters, for example, may pick up minerals and organic matter that slightly lower their pH. Bottled water with added carbonation, such as sparkling water, can also be more acidic because carbon dioxide dissolves in water to form carbonic acid, lowering the pH further.

Although consuming mildly acidic water isn’t harmful in moderation, consistently drinking highly acidic water may contribute to dental erosion or discomfort in individuals sensitive to acidic substances. It’s important to note that the acidity of bottled water is usually mild compared to other beverages like soft drinks or fruit juices. Some brands market their water as alkaline, with a higher pH, as part of a health trend that claims benefits for balancing the body’s acidity, though the scientific support for these claims is limited. Checking the pH level on bottled water labels can provide insight into its acidity level.